Liberty Branch Library

Client: Delaware County District Library

Location: Powell, Ohio

A new three-story, 42,500sf branch library.
Asymmetrical gable roof forms and rhythmic window spacing that bring a sense of contemporary expression to the modern design.
A central courtyard space provides a quiet outdoor reading area at the heart of the plan, while simultaneously bringing daylight into many of the internal areas.
A second-floor recessed covered porch provides opportunities for outdoor reading.
Immersive technology solutions provide seamless connectivity to both the library’s catalog and beyond—allowing for video sharing and live-streaming.

Interesting Fact: The inverted entry canopy pays homage to the iconic Orange Branch, providing brand consistency through building imagery within the Delaware County District Library system.

Liberty Branch Case Study

Architecture|Interior Design|Stakeholder Engagement

The new Liberty Branch Library comprises three floors of flexible, visually and functionally connected spaces that provide strong connectivity to the outdoors. While embracing a vertical organization due to programmatic requirements and site constraints, the facility provides a sense of grounding and place through the use of vernacular forms and materials derived from the region’s historic farming community and agrarian landscape.

"The timeless design will continue the DCDL moniker of being the 'community’s living room' while being physically located in the community, surrounded by residential neighborhoods."

– George Needham, Former Director, Delaware County District Library

"The library, from day one, wanted us to understand and learn from the community. Before we even started design, we talked with the public about services, amenities and features of the new library."

– Jeffrey Sackenheim, President, SHP

"Architects at SHP have designed a building with an attractive use of stone, welcoming landscaping and a tasteful nod to Powell’s rich history."

– George Needham, Former Director, Delaware County District Library

"This is a beautiful building. What I loved most about it is the detailing. The details are so well done. Lots of natural light, material selections and colors are fantastic and several outdoor spaces."

– Lauren Della Bella, Former President, SHP

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